IELTS Writing Task 2: How Technology is Changing the Way We Communicate – Sample Essays and Analysis

Technology has revolutionized communication in recent years, making it a popular topic in IELTS Writing Task 2. This essay question has appeared frequently in past IELTS exams and is likely to continue being a recurring theme. Let’s explore a sample question and analyze how to approach this topic effectively.

Technology changing communication

Sample IELTS Writing Task 2 Question

Some people think that the increasing use of technology, such as smartphones and computers, has had a negative impact on social interaction. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?

Question Analysis

This question requires you to discuss the impact of technology on social interaction. Key points to consider:

1. The question asks for your opinion on whether technology has negatively affected social interaction.
2. You need to provide reasons and examples to support your viewpoint.
3. Consider both positive and negative aspects of technology’s impact on communication.
4. Ensure you clearly state your position (agree, disagree, or partially agree).

Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)

In recent years, the proliferation of technology, particularly smartphones and computers, has dramatically altered the landscape of human communication. While some argue that these advancements have negatively impacted social interaction, I largely disagree with this viewpoint. I believe that technology has predominantly enhanced our ability to connect and interact with others, albeit in different ways than traditional face-to-face communication.

Firstly, technology has undoubtedly expanded our capacity to maintain relationships across vast distances. Social media platforms, video calling applications, and instant messaging services have made it possible to stay in touch with friends and family regardless of geographical barriers. For instance, expatriates can now easily participate in important family events through video calls, fostering a sense of closeness despite physical separation. This ability to bridge distances has enriched many people’s social lives, allowing them to maintain and even strengthen relationships that might otherwise have faded due to lack of contact.

Moreover, technology has created new avenues for social interaction that were previously non-existent. Online communities, forums, and collaborative platforms have brought together individuals with shared interests from across the globe. This has led to the formation of diverse social networks that transcend traditional boundaries of location, culture, and social circles. For example, a niche hobby enthusiast can now connect with like-minded individuals worldwide, engaging in rich discussions and sharing experiences that would have been impossible without technology.

However, it is important to acknowledge that the increased use of technology in communication does present some challenges. There is a risk of over-reliance on digital communication at the expense of face-to-face interactions, which can potentially lead to a decrease in the development of certain social skills. Additionally, the phenomenon of ‘phubbing’ – ignoring others in favor of one’s smartphone – can negatively impact the quality of in-person social interactions.

In conclusion, while technology has introduced some new challenges to social interaction, I believe its benefits far outweigh the drawbacks. The key lies in striking a balance between digital and face-to-face communication. By leveraging technology to enhance our social connections while still valuing in-person interactions, we can harness the full potential of these advancements to enrich our social lives.

(Word count: 345)

Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)

In today’s world, technology like smartphones and computers are everywhere. Some people think this is bad for how we talk to each other. I partly agree with this idea, but I also think technology has some good points for communication.

On one hand, technology can make social interaction worse in some ways. When people use their phones all the time, they might not talk face-to-face as much. For example, in restaurants, you can often see people looking at their phones instead of talking to the people they’re with. This can make relationships less strong because people aren’t really connecting in person.

However, technology also helps people stay in touch better. With social media and messaging apps, we can talk to friends and family who live far away. This is really good for people who can’t meet in person often. For instance, I can easily chat with my cousin who lives in another country, which wouldn’t be possible without technology.

Another good thing about technology is that it helps shy people communicate more easily. Some people find it hard to talk face-to-face, but they can express themselves better online. This can help them make friends and feel less lonely.

But there are also some problems with online communication. People might say mean things online that they wouldn’t say in person. This can lead to cyberbullying, which is a serious issue.

In conclusion, I think technology has both good and bad effects on how we communicate. It’s important to use technology in a balanced way. We should enjoy the benefits of staying connected online, but also remember to spend time talking to people face-to-face.

(Word count: 262)

Writing Tips for This Topic

1. Vocabulary: Use a range of vocabulary related to technology and communication. For higher band scores, incorporate more sophisticated terms.

   • Band 6-7: smartphones, social media, online, face-to-face, connect
   • Band 8-9: proliferation, expatriates, transcend, niche, phenomenon

2. Grammar: Employ a variety of sentence structures and tenses.

   • Band 6-7: Use simple and compound sentences with basic tenses.
   • Band 8-9: Incorporate complex sentences, conditionals, and perfect tenses.

3. Coherence and Cohesion: Ensure your essay flows logically.

   • Band 6-7: Use basic linking words (however, for example, in conclusion).
   • Band 8-9: Use more sophisticated cohesive devices (moreover, nevertheless, in light of).

4. Task Response: Address all parts of the question and provide a clear position.

   • Band 6-7: State your opinion clearly and provide basic examples.
   • Band 8-9: Provide a nuanced view, considering multiple perspectives with well-developed examples.

Key Vocabulary to Remember

1. Proliferation (noun) /prəˌlɪfəˈreɪʃn/: Rapid increase or spread.
2. Transcend (verb) /trænˈsend/: Go beyond the limits of.
3. Expatriate (noun) /eksˈpætrɪət/: A person living outside their native country.
4. Phubbing (noun) /ˈfʌbɪŋ/: The practice of ignoring one’s companion(s) in favor of paying attention to one’s phone.
5. Cyberbullying (noun) /ˈsaɪbəˌbʊliɪŋ/: The use of electronic communication to bully a person.
6. Niche (adjective) /niːʃ/: Denoting products, services, or interests that appeal to a small, specialized section of the population.
7. Phenomenon (noun) /fɪˈnɒmɪnən/: A fact or situation that is observed to exist or happen, especially one whose cause or explanation is in question.

In conclusion, the impact of technology on communication is a multifaceted topic that offers rich ground for discussion in IELTS Writing Task 2. While we’ve explored one specific question here, you might encounter variations such as:

• Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of social media in modern communication.
• How has technology changed the way we work and communicate in professional settings?
• To what extent has technology improved or hindered family relationships?

To prepare effectively, practice writing essays on these related topics. Remember to analyze the question carefully, plan your response, and use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures appropriate to your target band score. Feel free to share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and further discussion!